On Cloudmonster Review
Published: June 8, 2023
Specifications & Fit
Shoe Specs
| Weight | Men's: 9.7 oz (size 9) | Women's: 8.1 oz (size 8) |
| Stack Height | 34 mm (Heel), 28 mm (Forefoot) | 6 mm Heel-Toe Offset |
| Terrain | Road |
| Stability | Neutral |
| Sizing | Fits long |
Individual Thoughts
LizOverall Score: 7.5/10
The On Cloudmonster is a great highly-cushioned option for runners who prefer a firmer underfoot feel rather than squishy softness. For those who feel like running in max-cushioned shoes is like sinking into deep sand, the Cloudmonster delivers an excellent level of impact protection while providing a consistent and snappy ride. Despite its high stack height, the On is unexpectedly stable underfoot. The firmer feeling midsole and dramatic rocker geometry help to roll the wearer forward, maintaining a fast and efficient stride. While the Cloudmonster is not the lightest shoe out there, it feels surprisingly light on the run and streamlined on foot for its size.
The thicker midsole does a good job of offering impact protection, but it does not have the squishy softness that many expect from a max-cushioned shoe. I prefer using this shoe for daily runs rather than longer mileages, where I typically desire a more plush underfoot experience. Faster runners may also enjoy this shoe for long runs at uptempo paces when they need impact protection but still want a more responsive ride underfoot.
The place where the Cloudmonster really shines for me is the upper. The fit was seamless and irritation-free from the first try-on. The mesh design was very breathable while still providing a premium fit and feel. I have slightly wider feet and found the upper to be very accommodating, and I especially appreciated the secure wrap without the use of stiff overlays. Last but not least, the On Cloudmonster, like other On shoes, is very stylish. With the growing popularity of On shoes in the fashion industry and the bold colors offered in the Cloudmontster, I cannot leave the house in these shoes without getting complimented.
Our In-Depth Look
Upper
Liz: "On continues to deliver very stylish and comfortable uppers, and the Cloudmonster may have my favorite upper from the brand yet. The mesh design is incredibly lightweight and breathable. There are a few overlays and some light padding through the heel. While the upper is on the more minimal side, the fit is adaptable and secure on foot. Furthermore, the bold colors and unique design will always garner compliments, whether you are running or just walking around in the Cloudmonster."
Midsole
Liz: "The Cloudmonster is the most cushioned shoe in On's lineup, yet it still does not deliver cloud-like softness underfoot. That said, the shoe has one of the softest step-in feels I have experienced from an On shoe, except for the new Cloudsurfer, which provides a whole other level of plush comfort. The Cloudmonster has a bit of squish when walking and standing, but it firms up as I run, delivering a snappier ride that is somewhat firm even with its high stack and Cloudtec pods.
There are better shoes for fast runs, like the Saucony Endorphin Speed or NB Rebel, but I was surprised how easy it was to pick up the pace in the Cloudmonster, especially for a max cushioned design. When picking up the pace, the foam has a firm responsiveness that works with the dramatic rocker design to help roll the runner forward for an efficient and fast-feeling ride. If you are a runner who wants underfoot protection but still desires a firmer, faster feel underfoot, the Cloudmonster is an excellent option to consider."
Outsole
Liz: "I had no issues with the Cloudmonster's CloudTec rubber outsole when it came to grip or durability. The midsole's pod design leaves deep grooves between the rubber outsole segments, which has generated some complaints about rocks getting stuck. That said, I had no issues with any debris collecting between the pods in my pair.
My only complaint with the outsole was that I could slightly feel the pod directly underneath the ball of my foot. It was not uncomfortable, but I could notice the gaps between the midsole pods as I rolled through my stride at slower paces."
Comparable Models
Liz: "As always is the case with On running shoes, the Cloudmonster is truly unique, and there are not many directly comparable shoes. The On Cloudstratus is probably the closest comparison. With a different construction to the midsole layers, the Cloudstratus has a slightly smoother ride at slower paces. The Cloustratus is also a bit more versatile as a daily training shoe to cruise in, while the Cloudmonster has a faster feel due to the snappiness and more dramatic rocker."
On Men's Cloudmonster
The On Cloudmonster is a highly cushioned running shoe that features the brands largest clouds elements in order to provide maximum comfort during your everyday runs.
On Women's Cloudmonster
The On Cloudmonster is a highly cushioned running shoe that features the brands largest clouds elements in order to provide maximum comfort during your everyday runs.
